West End Farmers Market

Gloomy weather didn't keep the crowds away from opening day of the new West End Farmers Market on Sunday, June 23; in fact, according to Allen Thomas, one of the event organizers, approximately 500 people came through to check out the goods from 30 vendors>

"It was absolutely successful," said Jessica Rasmussen of Criminal Baking Co., who had sold out of nearly everything by the end of the day, praising the market's family environment and great turnout. "I hope we can keep this momentum going," she added.

Behind her, families lounged on the lawn aside the DeTurk Round Barn, talking, laughing and enjoying the energy of the commons on a Sunday morning—like a slice of Dolores Park brought to a little patch of Santa Rosa. And while some were skeptical that Santa Rosa has the population, or consumer base, to support four farmers markets—with successful versions already in place at the Wells Fargo Center, the Veterans Memorial Building and the Wednesday Night Market—the numbers show that there's always room for more community in Sonoma County. The West End Farmers Market runs every Sunday through Oct. 27. Donahue Street between West Ninth and Boyce streets, Santa Rosa. 10am–2pm. 707.477.8422.